    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2004, Book III)]
    [December 30, 2004]
    [Pages 3144-3145]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Indian Ocean Earthquake and Tsunamis
    December 30, 2004

        All Americans are shocked and saddened by the tragic loss of life
    and the destruction around the Indian Ocean. In this hour of critical
    need, America is joining with other nations and international
    organizations to do everything possible to provide assistance and relief
    to the victims and their families.
        Already cargo aircraft, support personnel, naval units, and aid
    shipments have been dispatched. To coordinate this massive relief
    effort, firsthand assessments are needed by individuals on the ground.
    On Sunday, January 2, I will send a delegation of experts to the
    affected areas to meet with regional leaders and international
    organizations to assess what additional aid can be provided by the
    United States. The delegation will be led by Secretary of State Colin
    Powell and Governor Jeb Bush, who has extensive experience in the State of Florida with
    relief, rehabilitation, and reconstruction efforts following natural
    disasters. I

    [[Page 3145]]

    look forward to receiving the delegation's assessment of the relief
    efforts so that our Government can best help those in need.

    Note: The related proclamation of January 1, 2005, was published in the
    Federal Register at 70 FR 1157.